NFL Tailgating Guide for Lucas Oil Stadium | Indy Luxury Rentals

Tailgating Guide to Attending NFL Games at Lucas Oil Stadium

7/25/2024

A brightly lit American football stadium at night, viewed from the 50-yard line. The field is green and well-maintained, with white yard markers clearly visible. The stands are filled with spectators, blurred in the background under the stadium lights.

A Gameday Experience Like No Other

Welcome to Colts Country!

There's nothing like cheering on our beloved team at the iconic Lucas Oil Stadium in downtown Indianapolis.

As a professional vacation rental company, we at the Villa on Meridian take pride in helping guests have an unforgettable experience in our great city. And for sports enthusiasts, catching an Indianapolis Colts home game is an absolute must! Whether you're a diehard Indianapolis Colts fan or just here for the experience, this guide will ensure you maximize your visit to Lucas Oil Stadium.

So get ready to tailgate, cheer on the team, and soak in the energy of 67,000 passionate fans united by their love for football.

Getting to the Stadium

Indianapolis is a city designed for convenience, especially on game days.

Here are some tips to help you get to Lucas Oil Stadium smoothly.

Parking

The stadium offers ample parking options, but arriving early is key. Event lots and garages are plentiful, with prices varying depending on proximity to the stadium.

Parking rates range from $20 to $40, depending on the lot. You can also purchase parking passes in advance through Parking Panda or other apps.

Skywalk System

Avoid rough weather by using the skywalk system, which connects several downtown hotels and the Indiana Convention Center directly to the stadium.

Public Transport

The Indianapolis Red Line, e-scooters, and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are excellent alternatives if you prefer not to drive.

Stay at Villa on Meridian

Our vacation rentals are just a 10-minute walk from Lucas Oil Stadium, allowing you to skip the hassle of parking and public transportation.

Tailgating at Lucas Oil Stadium

A group of friends tailgating near a stadium, wearing team colors and face paint. They are gathered around a barbecue grill, smiling and laughing as they prepare food.

Lucas Oil Stadium is more than just a venue; it's a state-of-the-art facility with a seating capacity of 67,000, designed to offer an unforgettable Colts game day experience.

And no Indianapolis Colts gameday experience is complete without a classic tailgate party.

The parking lots around the stadium open five hours prior to kickoff, giving you plenty of time to set up your tailgate, fire up the grill, and get into that game-ready spirit alongside fellow Colts fans.

One of the best aspects of tailgating is the camaraderie and meeting fellow diehard fans. Don't be shy - most groups are happy to let you join their festivities if you bring some food or drinks to share.

It's all about bonding over your love for the Indianapolis Colts!

Joining the Blue Crew Fan Club

No true Colts fan's experience is complete without joining the Blue Crew, the official fan club of the Indianapolis Colts.

As a member, you'll have access to exclusive events, merchandise discounts, and the opportunity to connect with fellow die-hard fans. Plus, you'll be part of a community that bleeds blue and white, united in their unwavering support for the team.

The Blue Crew Tailgate

Speaking of the Blue Crew, they take tailgating to a whole new level. Join them at the Bullseye Event Center, located just a short walk from Lucas Oil Stadium, for an epic pre-game party featuring live music, food trucks, and a lively atmosphere that will get you fired up for kickoff.

Top Tailgating Tips

Get there early to snag a prime tailgating spot close to the stadium.
Bring a portable grill, coolers stocked with food and drinks, chairs, games, and Indianapolis Colts gear to show your team spirit.
Follow all tailgating rules and policies.
Have a designated driver if you'll be drinking alcoholic beverages.
Bring along some cornhole boards or a football to toss around.

Tailgating is all about having fun and connecting with other fans!

Skip The Tailgating and Head to Touchdown Town

If you'd rather skip the hassle of planning your own tailgate, head straight to the free Touchdown Town pregame event at the north gate plaza along South Street.

This all-ages party starts three hours before kickoff and features live music from the Indianapolis Colts Drumline, appearances by Colts Cheerleaders, drink specials, giveaways, and an interactive kids' zone. It's the perfect place to soak up that unbeatable gameday energy!

The Game Day Experience

A silhouette of an enthusiastic fan with arms raised in celebration, holding a hat in one hand. The fan is in a stadium filled with other spectators, overlooking a brightly lit football field during a game. The blurred background shows the field, goalposts, and a lively atmosphere.

After enjoying the tailgating experience, head inside the stadium for the Colts game!

With its retractable roof and massive window walls, Lucas Oil Stadium offers an unparalleled gameday atmosphere no matter the weather. You'll feel the energy as soon as you step inside and see the pristine field surrounded by roaring fans.

Be sure to get to your seats early so you don't miss any pregame festivities!

Bag Policy

Lucas Oil Stadium has a strict bag policy to ensure a safe experience for all guests. The only permissible bags are:

Clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags that do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12"
One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags
Small clutch bags approximately the size of a hand

Any other purses, backpacks, fanny packs, or bags will not be allowed inside and must be returned to your vehicle. There are no bag check facilities at the stadium.

Nearby Food, Drinks, and Entertainment

While the stadium offers plenty to see, eat, and do, you'll also want to experience some of the incredible dining and nightlife options in downtown Indianapolis before or after the game.

Indianapolis Colts Gameday Restaurants and Bars

Just steps from Lucas Oil Stadium, you'll find various restaurants and watering holes perfect for pre or post-game festivities.

A few of our favorites include:

Kilroy's Bar & Grill - A longtime Indianapolis favorite known for its burgers, beer selection, and lively atmosphere.
The Slippery Noodle Inn - One of the oldest bars in the state serving classic pub fare in a historic setting.
High Velocity - A premier sports bar with a massive indoor/outdoor patio area.
O’Reilly’s Irish Bar - A classic Irish bar serving up the best food and beer in town.
St. Elmo Steak House - Home of the iconic “man cave” of Peyton Manning, St. Elmo Steak House is a must visit for any true-blue Indianapolis Colts fans.

The Villa on Meridian Is Your Perfect Home Base

Finding the right place to stay can significantly enhance your Indianapolis Colts game day experience. The Villa on Meridian offers vacation rentals that are comfortable and ideally located.

Here's why we are the perfect choice:

Proximity to the Stadium: Situated just a short walking distance or drive from Lucas Oil Stadium, you won't have to worry about long commutes or parking hassles.
Upscale Amenities: Enjoy top-notch amenities, from spacious living areas to fully equipped kitchens, that will make you feel right at home.
Personalized Service: Personalized concierge services to assist with anything from dinner reservations to game tickets.

Fellow Colts Fans Stay With Us

Attending an Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium is more than just watching football; it's an experience filled with excitement, camaraderie, and unforgettable memories. From the excitement of tailgating to the convenience of accommodations at the Villa on Meridian, your game day experience is sure to be spectacular!

For more information on bookings and accommodations, visit Villa on Meridian.

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